Letter: Quite a showing for exceptional Marine

The U.S. lost an exceptional Marine squad leader, Casey Holmes, in a tragic accident and his family lost a son or brother, something most families don't expect for a 20-year-old, but he was one of the 1 percent of American families with a loved one serving in the military and I believe all Americans are grateful for these troops.

I attended the church service for this young Marine and was very thankful to see over 600 people, many of whom probably do not know the family. I was especially moved to see about 60 Marines there, including 30 Marines from Casey's platoon and several officers. The Marines really came through for one of their own, or as the Marines' motto "Semper Fi" ("Always Faithful") makes clear — they mean it.

And I want to thank some other older veterans who stood outside holding large American flags. The Chico community showed we care. But we must continue to care for all the troops (and their families) returning home.

I served in Vietnam (1967-68), paratrooper, 101st Airborne, so this service for Casey was important to me, also.